What is the best single op amp boost/overdrive?

[freddd]

I have one TL071 left and I'm looking to build a clean boost/overdrive with it. Have you guys got any ideas for circuits that would fill the spec? I'm looking at the DOD OD 250 but does that cover clean boost territory well?

Thanks!

[GibsonGM]

How about the "IC-Based Overdrive" right on the forum front page?  A TL071 works the same as an LM741, and you can mod that kind of circuit forever!  Switch the diodes in or out for OD/clean boost.... most ODs aren't going to get really clean, no - they tend to get 'muted' sounding on really low gain, IMO. 

[Ben N]

Basically the same idea, check Tonepad's MicroAmp and Distortion+ projects, which use the same pcb. A little wll laced switching should get you what you want, since the differences between them are clippers and a little bit of hi-pass filtering in the Distortion.

[Dragonfly]

I'm gonna start with the obligatory "whats best for me might not be best for you....." ....therefore there is no BEST.

That being said, there are quite a few single op amp circuits....Erik Hansen has a booster in his folder, MartyMart has a cool dirty boost in his folder, theres the Microamp, the OD250, the Distortion +, etc, etc...

The question becomes...what sound are YOU wanting to add to your tone toys ? Do you want a clean boost ? Do you want a boost that adds a little "grit" ? Do you want an overdrive ?

Another option would be to build the OD250 but use LED's for the clipping section. That will give you a fairly clean boost on one extreme, and a light "Marshall-ish" overdrive on the other.

[freddd]

Hey, thanks for the replies guys. I've breadboarded the microamp and the od 250. I liked both - I tried the od 250 with LED's and liked it also. The choice aghhh!

Has anyone tried the Red Fuzz? Any opinions on that?